Are you ready to can those fresh fruits and vegetables with Grandma's pressure canner but don't know when it was last used? ISU West Pottawattamie County Extension will test your canner gauge at NO CHARGE and advise you if it is functioning properly and if other repairs may be needed to safely preserve your garden bounties. Please be advised: Oven canning is NOT a safe shortcut, Barb Fuller, Nutrition and Health Specialist and a Master Food Safety Advisor for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, says, “Many individuals have shared they have tried, or have heard about, oven canning. Just because a jar is sealed doesn’t mean the food inside is safe to eat. I’ve had people say to me- ‘I haven’t gotten sick from it.’ I tell them they are probably very lucky! Botulism is a big concern.”

Statewide Resources

Participate in these classes for child care providers focused on healthy, affordable food choices and physical activities for children. Department of Human Services-approved credit is available for those attending.

The number of overweight children (ages 6-11) has almost quadrupled in the past four decades and for adolescents (12-19) has tripled. This series of handouts is designed to help parents, communities, and childcare providers address the overweight issue.

Get answers to your home and family questions from the specialists at AnswerLine. Connect with them on the phone, email, Facebook or Twitter for information about cleaning, food preparation, preservation, and safety, home environment, equipment, nutrition, textiles, and laundry. - 1-800-262-3804 or - answer@iastate.edu

Spending less on food often means investing time and effort in planning, shopping and preparing food. Check out our blog, website, and Facebook page to learn skills and adopt habits to feed your family nutritious meals for less money.